What causes Yellow Toenails? 

What is Yellow Toenails

Yellow toenails simply mean that the nails on your toes have turned a yellowish color. This change in color can be caused by a variety of factors, such as fungal infections, smoking, aging, wearing dark nail polish, or underlying medical conditions. Some people with yellowing toenails may also experience thickening, brittleness, or separation of the nail from the nail bed.

Some of the causes of Yellow Toenails

• Fungal infections: Toenail fungus, also known as onychomycosis, is a common cause of yellowing of toenails. This type of infection grows in warm, moist environments and can cause your toenails to become thick, yellow, and brittle. If you suspect a fungal infection, see a doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment options.
• Smoking: Smoking can leave yellow stains on your toenails due to the nicotine present in cigarettes. Quitting smoking can help improve the appearance of toenails stains caused by nicotine.
• Aging: As we age, our toenails naturally become thicker and less transparent, which can result in a yellow discoloration. This is a normal part of the aging process and is not a cause for concern.
• Nail polish: Frequently wearing dark or heavily pigmented nail polish can cause yellow stains to develop on your toenails. Try switching to lighter colors or give your toenails a break from polish.
• Medical conditions: In rare cases, it can be a symptom of underlying medical conditions such as yellow nail syndrome, respiratory conditions, or liver disease. If you’re concerned talk to your doctor to rule out any underlying health issues.

5 Natural remedies

• Tea tree oil: Soaking your feet in warm water with a few drops of tea tree oil can help treat toenail fungus. The antifungal properties of tea tree oil help to eliminate the fungal infection and improve the appearance of the toenails.
• Lemon juice: Applying lemon juice to your Nails daily can help lighten the yellow color. The citric acid in lemon juice acts as a natural bleaching agent, gently removing the yellow pigmentation and restoring the natural color of the Nails.
• White vinegar: Soaking your feet in warm water with a cup of white vinegar for 15-20 minutes can help get rid of the yellowing. The acidity of vinegar helps to kill off fungal infections and prevent the growth of new ones, while also helping to restore the natural color of the toenails.
• Baking soda: Mixing baking soda with water to make a paste and applying it to your Nails can help exfoliate and lighten the yellow color. Baking soda helps to remove dead skin cells and yellow pigmentation, leaving your toenails looking brighter and healthier.
• Oregano oil: Applying oregano oil directly to your toenails and massaging it in can help treat it. Oregano oil has antifungal properties that help to eliminate the fungal infection and improve the appearance of the toenails.

4 Conventional treatments

• Antifungal medication: Prescribed to treat fungal infection and improve toenail appearance.
• Nail removal: In severe cases, a doctor may remove the affected nail.
• Laser therapy: Kills fungal infection and promotes healthy nail growth.
• Photodynamic therapy (PDT): Uses light and solution to kill fungal infection.